THE 1%
A program of Public Architecture, connects non-profits with architecture and design firms willing to give of their pro bono.
Potential impact
If every architecture professional in the U.S. committed 1% of their time to pro bono service, it would add up to 5,000,000 hours annually - the equivalent of a 2,500-person firm, working full-time for the public good.
Background
Launched by Public Architecture in 2005 with the support of a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, The 1% is a first-of-its-kind effort to encourage pro bono service within the architecture and design professions.
The 1% program asks architecture and design firms nationwide to dedicate one percent of their working hours to pro bono service. Nearly 200 architecture and design firms across the U.S. have already pledged their time through The program delivered an estimated $10 million in pro bono services over the past two years alone. The 1% program defines pro bono service to be professional services rendered in the public interest without expectation of a fee or with a significant reduction in fees. It has attracted a range of firms, from sole practitioners to some of the largest firms in the country, such as Perkins + Will and HKS. Design firms of all kinds and sizes are welcome to pledge and participate. The 1% program focuses primarily on 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations as appropriate pro bono clients. These organizations have been relieved of their tax burden in recognition of the societal benefit that they provide.
The 1% program is a national venue for firms to document their pro bono contributions, gain recognition, and find new project opportunities. Learn how it works.
